Golf is part of the foothill lifestyle in El Dorado Hills. Whether you play for the competition, the scenery, the social calendar, or simply the quiet rhythm of a well-kept course, this area offers a strong mix of private club golf and nearby public options. This guide breaks down the primary golf experience inside El Dorado Hills and the best courses within a short drive for tee times, lessons, and regular play.
Golf in El Dorado Hills at a Glance
El Dorado Hills itself is known most for private club golf. The most prominent 18-hole course located in El Dorado Hills is Serrano Country Club. For golfers who want more frequent public tee-time options, several well-regarded courses are close by in Folsom, Cameron Park, Granite Bay, Roseville, and Auburn.
If you are new to the area, here is the simplest way to think about it:
- Private club golf in El Dorado Hills: Serrano Country Club
- Public golf nearby: Multiple courses within roughly 10 to 35 minutes depending on time of day
- Practice and instruction: Options vary by course, with several facilities offering lessons, range time, and junior programs
Serrano Country Club in El Dorado Hills
Serrano Country Club is the signature golf experience in El Dorado Hills. It is a private club with a full slate of amenities and an 18-hole course designed to play as a thoughtful, strategic test while still being enjoyable for a wide range of skill levels.
What to expect
- 18-hole, par 72 layout designed by Robert Trent Jones II
- Private club environment with dining and social offerings
- Setting: rolling terrain and mature oaks, a classic El Dorado Hills feel
For many residents, Serrano is as much about community as it is about golf. If you enjoy club events, practice routines, leagues, and the consistency that comes with a member experience, it is often the first place to explore.
What Happened to the Old Executive Golf Course?
Long-time locals sometimes refer to an “old executive golf course” property in El Dorado Hills. The El Dorado Hills Community Services District announced it took ownership of a portion of that property in January 2024, and the site has been discussed in terms of future possibilities. If you are searching for an executive course specifically in El Dorado Hills, it is worth confirming current status before planning play.
Nearby Public and Semi-Private Golf Options
While the private club option is the standout inside El Dorado Hills, golfers who want flexible tee times will appreciate how many solid courses sit just outside the community. The courses below are commonly considered “El Dorado Hills area” golf because they are a short drive and are part of many residents’ regular rotation.
Empire Ranch Golf Club (Folsom)
Empire Ranch is a popular nearby choice for public play. It is one of the most convenient courses from El Dorado Hills and often appeals to golfers who want consistent course conditions, a straightforward booking experience, and a solid mix of players.
Cameron Park Country Club (Cameron Park)
Cameron Park Country Club is another close option and is often a practical choice when you want a quick drive, a familiar local feel, and a course that many foothill residents have played for years.
Granite Bay Golf Club (Granite Bay)
Granite Bay provides another nearby alternative for casual rounds and regular play. Many El Dorado Hills residents include Granite Bay in their rotation, especially when mixing up scenery and pace of play.
The Ridge Golf Course & Events Center (Auburn)
If you enjoy a course with a foothill setting and a layout designed to work with elevation, oak-studded terrain, and broader views, The Ridge in Auburn is a common “worth the drive” option. It is also frequently chosen for group play and events.
A note on Bass Lake Golf Course
Bass Lake Golf Course has historically been on many local golfers’ radar because of proximity. However, some directories have noted closure status in recent years. If Bass Lake is on your list, confirm current availability before you plan a round.
How to Choose the Right Course for Your Style
Golfers choose courses for different reasons. Here is a simple framework that helps narrow the right fit quickly.
If you want a private club experience
- You play often and want consistency
- You value a strong member community
- You want practice routines, leagues, and events
If you want flexible public tee times
- You prefer booking on short notice
- You play a variety of courses for interest
- You want options for different price points and pace
If you want scenery and a “destination round”
- You enjoy elevation and foothill views
- You like a course that feels removed from neighborhoods
- You do not mind a slightly longer drive for variety
Golf as a Lifestyle Marker in El Dorado Hills
For many homeowners, golf is not just a weekend activity. It shapes how they spend time, who they socialize with, and what “home” needs to support. In El Dorado Hills, golf often ties closely to lifestyle priorities like walkability within a community, social calendars, and the desire for well-maintained surroundings.
If golf is central to your lifestyle, your home search often becomes more specific. Buyers may prioritize:
- Proximity to the course or club amenities
- Easy access to Highway 50 for nearby courses
- A single-story layout for long-term comfort
- Lock-and-leave convenience for travel and tournaments
Planning Tips for Golfers New to the Area
- Try before you commit: If you are considering a membership, visit for dining or events when possible and learn the culture.
- Build a rotation: Many locals keep a “home course” and two to three nearby alternates.
- Consider drive times realistically: The same course can feel close or far depending on weekday traffic patterns.
- Confirm course status: Especially for courses that have had changes in availability or ownership.
The Final Word
El Dorado Hills offers a strong golf lifestyle anchored by Serrano Country Club, with excellent nearby options for public play across the Sacramento Valley foothills. Whether you are looking for a private club community, flexible tee times, or a scenic weekend round, you will find a mix that fits your style. If you are moving into the area and golf is part of your routine, choosing the right course mix is one of the best ways to feel at home quickly.
